Michelle Wie to play in LPGA State Farm Classic in Springfield

Michelle Wie has accepted a sponsor's exemption to play in the 2008 LPGA State Farm Classic at Panther Creek Country Club in Springfield July 14-20.

The 18-year-old Wie struggled in 2007 with a wrist injury and is a freshman at Stanford University.

Wie, still seeking her first title, has played in the John Deere Classic in downstate Silvis against men, but this is her first time playing in the State Farm Classic.

"I have had the good fortune of making a career out of something I love at a very young age, and tournaments like the State Farm Classic allow me to give something back to the community and fans," Wie said.